Emma Vogelmann took over as Work Experience Development Officer at Moving Up six months ago - In this Q & A she reviews progress for the organisation which was set up in 2015 - and sets out her hopes for 2020.
Which industries are involved?
London based organisations representing the creative industry, marketing, TV and tech make up our current partners. I am in the process of getting companies from the financial and legal industries to come on board.
How do they find out about MDUK?
Corporate organisations have often been involved with the charity through a fundraising event or a corporate campaign. They will often ask what more they can do to get more involved. Besides this, I try to make contact with as many organisations as I can.
How do the participants find the scheme?
We run Disability Employment Rights Sessions at London universities. They are a great way for young disabled people to learn about their rights and find out about our fully supportive work experience opportunity.
What is the best part of the job?
The best part of this job is seeing young disabled people who come onto the project thrive and gain confidence in a work environment.
Some- like Jack Blackburn – come to us while they are just doing a winter break.
Jack, 19, who was diagnosed with mitochondrial disease aged 12, did a month’s work experience with Muscular Dystrophy UK’s disabled campaigners last June.
With generous funding from the City Bridge Trust, Muscular Dystrophy UK fund any additional equipment needed, lunch and travel expenses. All placements begin in Muscular Dystrophy UK’s London office, with the potential opportunity to take advantage of our links with external organisations for further placements. This programme seeks to narrow the employment gap for young disabled Londoners by offering supportive work experience placements. Recognising the health and accessibility needs disabled people, the flexible placements differ according to the needs and interests of each applicant.
Now studying chemistry, biology and physics Jack is hoping to go into medicine. He would like to become a doctor and specialise in helping people with muscular dystrophy.
Emma’s hopes for the year ahead
More external partners! If any potential employers are seeing this then please get in touch. I would love to have more partners to choose from - so that I can place people in work places that suit their interests.